Occupancy approval (kolaudace)

In kolaudace, the building authority checks that a completed building matches its permit and issues an occupancy decision (kolaudační rozhodnutí) allowing its use for a stated purpose. Under the Building Act No. 283/2021 Coll., which applies to most buildings from 1 July 2024, a building that requires a permit may be used only on the basis of an occupancy decision and only for the purpose set out in it.

Which buildings need it

• Buildings that require a building permit, except most simple structures.
• Among simple structures, residential and holiday buildings do need it, so an ordinary family house does too.
• Simple structures without occupancy approval may be used right after completion in line with the permit, but the builder must promptly notify the building authority.
• Minor structures, for example a structure of up to 40 m² on the plot of a family house that meets the statutory conditions, need neither a permit nor occupancy approval.

How it works

The application must include, among other things, a survey plan if the building is recorded in the land register, results of the required tests and measurements and an energy performance certificate where the law requires one. Where needed, the authority holds a final inspection within 30 days of a complete application and decides within 15 days of it. An expert report by an authorised inspector can replace the inspection. For a new building the authority asks the municipality to assign a house number.

Earlier terms and changes

Under the previous Building Act No. 183/2006 Coll., use was permitted by an occupancy consent (kolaudační souhlas) or an occupancy decision, and many buildings needed no consent at all. An occupancy consent issued in the past is now treated as an occupancy decision. A change in the permitted use of a finished building, which the law heads 'rekolaudace', requires a permit for a change of use. A major amendment signed in September 2026 is due to apply mainly from 1 January 2027, so procedures may change further.

Frequently asked questions

What if an older house has no occupancy document?

Ask the building authority how the building was permitted and whether its use was approved. If no documents showing the permitted purpose survive, the Building Act deems the building intended for the purpose its construction and layout suggest. The owner may be required to have a building passport (pasport stavby) prepared.

Can a house be used before occupancy approval?

Only with a permit for early use, which the building authority may grant on request for up to 1 year, with the option of extension. Using a building without a required occupancy decision is an offence punishable by a fine.